Allianz Football League Division One: Tyrone 2-13 Derry 1-9

Derry manager Paddy Tally labelled the 50-metre penalty for dissent as “draconian” and says the “12th man is killing the game” after watching his side lose their Division One opener to Tyrone in Omagh on Saturday night.

Goals in either half from defenders Michael McKernan and Peter Teague were vital for Malachy O’Rourke’s men, who were two down early in the second half after a stunning goal from Derry skipper Conor Glass.

However, they closed the game out in impressive fashion thanks to Teague’s goal on the hour, with Niall Morgan initiating the move with a great ball inside for Ciaran Daly, who passed across the face of goal with Teague getting the final touch.

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Yet, new Oak Leaf boss didn’t mince his words when asked for his take on the new playing rules and feels the influence of goalkeepers like Morgan is something that needs to be addressed.

“The 12th man is killing the game. It’s as simple as that,” stated Tally.

“That is no slight on any particular goalkeeper. Niall (Morgan) is a fantastic ‘keeper but it doesn’t make any sense.

“You wanted one to one battles and there were periods in that game today when the ball was just going back and forth across the field for two, three minutes at a time.

“It’s just a pointless rule. The goalkeeper contributing and coming up the field, it is something we have to look at.”

With his side also hit by three 50-metre penalties during the first half, Tally added: “It doesn’t seem natural. I think it’s a very draconian punishment for something so simple at times.”

Like their hosts, Derry were also understrength for their opening fixture of Division One with Conor McCluskey and Padraig McGrogan still sidelined while their Ballinderry contingent were also absent.

They welcome Kerry to Celtic Park next Sunday with Tally set to share a sideline with Jack O’Connor having departed Kerry’s coaching team to take the reins of Derry.

He admits his charges have ‘plenty to work on’ ahead of their round two tie.

“This division one this year is the top eight teams in Ireland and it is very, very competitive,” added Tally.

"There were a lot of players playing together for the first time as well. A bit rusty which is natural enough having had no competitive games to this point, no pre-season competition and then straight into the national league which is a hard thing for players as well. Didn’t do too bad, but plenty to work on.”

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